UXC acquires BCT

ASX-listed services outfit UXC has acquired Canberra-based ICT services provider BCT Group.

The acquisition would be payable through a combination of cash and shares. The acquisition price has not been disclosed.

The move would see UXC gain greater compliance and security skills and further access to business opportunities in the security agency and Federal Government department markets.

BCT distributes data search and categorisation solutions from Convera, and Customer Data Integration (CDI) technology from Initiate. It provided CDI, information management and categorisation services.

The company would now merge with UXC’s existing Canberra-based ICT security and infrastructure business, CNS/Itac and will have a combined staff of 30.

BCT co-founders, George Katavic and Joseph Barbatano, will stay on in senior management roles. BCT’s professional staff will also remain, UXC said.

In an ASX statement, UXC Business Solutions Group CEO Cris Nicolli, said the acquisition would immediately strengthen the company’s position in Canberra.

“Given BCT’s existing client base and synergies with CNS/Itac, the combined business will possess one of the strongest customer data integration, information management and categorisation offerings in the Federal Government market,” he said.

“Increased access to specialist staff and resources, and the ability to contribute to UXC cross-group business opportunities will significantly bolster BCT’s existing business."

UXC recently announced a half year profit of $6.8 million for the half year ending December 31 2005.

UXC’s Business Solutions Group accounts around 70 per cent of UXC's total revenues and has recorded revenue growth of 25 per cent to $95 million for the half.